Sudden Jhelum River surge floods dozens of Athara Hazari villages, inundates crops

JHELUM: A sudden and unannounced surge in the River Jhelum has flooded dozens of villages in Tehsil Athara Hazari, submerging homes, farmland and standing crops, residents and officials said on Monday.

Floodwaters swept into several localities including Balo, Mari Shah, Munday Syed and Dhabi Balochan, leaving large areas underwater and triggering panic among residents. Vast stretches of agricultural land were inundated as the river overflowed into adjoining settlements.

Hundreds of acres of wheat ready for harvest, along with sugarcane and fodder crops, were damaged, worsening the financial difficulties of farmers still recovering from last year’s floods. Growers warned that losses could escalate if water levels continue to rise.

Affected residents urged authorities to immediately open the gates of Head Trimmu to facilitate the discharge of excess water and prevent further damage to crops and homes. Many also complained that compensation promised after previous flooding has yet to be delivered, leaving families vulnerable.

The flooding occurred despite a recent advisory from the Flood Forecasting Division in Lahore, which had warned of possible flash flooding in the River Kabul due to a strong westerly weather system but did not indicate any unusual rise in the River Jhelum.

The advisory had cautioned that heavy rainfall and snowfall in upper regions could increase flows in the Kabul River and its tributaries, prompting authorities including the Provincial and District Disaster Management Authorities to remain alert and prepare for emergencies. Residents in low-lying areas near waterways had also been advised to exercise caution during the forecast period.

Local administrations and emergency services are monitoring the situation as concerns grow over further flooding if upstream inflows intensify.